Oxhey United step foot on new ground

Oxhey United Under 14s played their first game on the new pitch at South Oxhey Playing Fields this weekend (Sunday 11 September).

Councillor Keith Williams, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, was there as the game kicked off. Cllr Williams said;

“Enthusiasm for participating in sport is reaching new heights amongst young people in the district as the excitement of the London Olympics builds. Three Rivers is creating opportunities for local people to take part in sport and these new pitches will be part of the local Olympic legacy.”

The Club's Sarah Hinckling added:

"Football is good because it's a team sport and teaches young people to interact well with their friends and with other teams from other areas. Football also teaches them to respect team mates, officials and parents. More importantly it gets them out exercising. Thanks to club managers Nathalie Mealing and Paul Collins for their hard work in helping to set this pitch up with the District Council."

Research undertaken by the District Council in the South Oxhey area has identified football as the second favourite activity for young people after socialising with friends. Football is also the activity that young people have said they most want to see more of in the area.

Previous plans for a rugby pitch at this location on the playing fields were altered by the District Council following concerns from residents about the height of posts and the perceived greater risk of balls overshooting into gardens.